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Oregonians Access New Financing Resources with ETO's Lending Allies

September 10, 2012

Oregonians investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy have access to a new financing resource to help make their projects pencil out. Homeowners and business owners may now qualify for low-cost financing solutions provided by Energy Trust of Oregon’s lending allies. In addition, utility customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural and Cascade Natural Gas can qualify for Energy Trust standard cash incentives and seasonal bonus incentives, as well as potential state and federal tax credits.

Lending allies are independent financial institutions recognizing the need for financing products that further support residential and commercial customers making energy improvements. These products may include preferred rates or fee structures for projects receiving Energy Trust incentives. These businesses also receive training and support on Energy Trust eligibility requirements, incentives and services. Thecurrent listof lending allies includes Directors Mortgage, Green Mortgage Northwest and GreenStreet Lending from Umpqua Bank.

GreenStreet Lending originally launched in 2008 as a collaboration between Energy Trust and Umpqua Bank. To also offer the financing product to customers outside of Energy Trust service territory, the program evolved into a sole offering from Umpqua Bank, which became an Energy Trust lending ally this year.Read how Umpqua Bank has loaned more than $50 millionto businesses and customers to help fund more than 200 projects since the inception of GreenStreet Lending.

In addition to lending allies, homeowners can finance home energy upgrades through Clean Energy Works Oregon. Energy Trust standard incentives are offered as instant rebates through Clean Energy Works Oregon to reduce total project costs, and Clean Energy Works Oregon can help homeowners find low-interest financing to complete whole-home energy improvements.